Equine herpesvirus causes respiratory disease, abortion and neurological illness in horses, with welfare implications that extend across whole yards and competitions.
Equine herpesvirus welfare impacts range from mild respiratory disease to fatal neurological illness. Horses with equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM) suffer progressive neurological deterioration that is distressing and often fatal or leads to euthanasia. Biosecurity is the primary welfare tool — preventing introduction and spread through strict quarantine, temperature monitoring and movement restrictions during outbreaks. The anxiety of affected horses during isolation and the distress of owners during uncertainty are secondary welfare considerations. Effective vaccination and biosecurity planning protect both individual horses and the broader equine community.